The four most frequently asked water testing questions we receive are:

• What should I test for?
• How often should I test?
• What is the desired value for a particular test?
• Which test kit should I use?

The chart below lists all of the parameters we recommend testing for in the four main types of aquariums. It lists our recommended values for the tests and our recommended testing frequency. You can follow the links below to find which test kit we recommend for each parameter in each tank. In many cases the best choice is a master test kit with various types of tests (for example, the Aquarium Pharmaceuticals Freshwater Master Test Kit has pH, High Range pH, Ammonia, Nitrite and Nitrate tests). For measuring temperature there is no specific recommendation.

For salinity we highly recommend the new MarineAndReef.com Reefractometer. It's a high quality product at a very reasonable price.